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Wakamotoharu (32, from Asashio stable, East maegashira #5) suffered his second consecutive loss on Day 2 of the Summer Grand Sumo Tournament at Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo.
He lost to Daiesho by hatakikomi (slap down). Although he charged powerfully at the tachi-ai (initial clash), he was slapped down while moving forward. Despite the defeat, he reflected, “My first step wasn’t bad.”
After also losing on Day 1 against Gounoyama, Wakamotoharu is off to a two-loss start. “I’ve only had two bouts. It’s still early, isn’t it? There are many things to improve, but my body feels fine,” he said optimistically.
On the same day, New Japan Pro Wrestling’s “Wild Bull” Hiroshi Tenzan (55) held a retirement press conference, announcing that his final match will take place on August 15 at Ryogoku Kokugikan.
Wakamotoharu, widely regarded as the biggest pro wrestling fan in the sumo world, shared his feelings: “Even though his condition hasn’t been great lately, he kept fighting hard. Thank you for your efforts. It’s sad that we won’t get to see the Mongolian Chop anymore.”
He will face Shodai on Day 3. “I want to steadily get back into form from here,” Wakamotoharu said, shifting his focus forward.
